The Ice Saints – Die Eisheiligen in Alta Badia, between winter and summer.
The Ice Saints – die Eisheiligen, the transition into summer
Between 11 and 15 May, Alta Badia revives one of the interesting traditions of Alpine culture: the Ice Saints – die Eisheiligen. According to tradition, these days mark the last possible return of cold weather before the beginning of the summer season. A transitional moment that, in the mountains, has always been observed with attention and respect.
A suspended time between winter and summer
The tradition of the Ice Saints is rooted in rural wisdom, which over time has observed and passed down the return of late cold spells through sayings and popular customs.
Although they are often referred to as the “Three Saints”, the tradition varies across Alpine regions. The three main figures are Saint Pancras, Saint Servatius and Saint Boniface often joined by Saint Sophia, known as “the cold one”, and Saint Mamertus, mainly venerated in Northern Europe.
This tradition is present throughout the Alpine arc and beyond, with a strong presence in South Tyrol, Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Poland, reflecting a shared cultural heritage among mountain communities.
In Corvara and Alta Badia, this tradition is still alive today and continues to express the deep connection between people, nature and the changing seasons — the same balance that defines the identity of this region.
The Ice Saints and the last cold days
Rural wisdom has preserved over time sayings linked to these days:
- 11 May – Saint Mamertus: “has a cold heart” (Mamerz hat ein kaltes Herz)
- 12 May – Saint Pancras: frost can still damage the fields (Wenns an Pankratius friert, so wird im Garten viel ruiniert.
- 13 May – Saint Servatius: it is best to wait before uncovering crops (Servaz muss vorüber sein, willst vor Nachtfrost sicher sein)
- 14 May – Saint Boniface: summer has not yet begun (Vor Bonifaz kein Sommer, nach Sophie kein Frost.
- 15 May – Saint Sophia: after her, frost gives way to the new season (Vor Nachfrost du nicht sicher bist – bis Sophie vorüber ist.
When cold gives way to summer
According to the traditional rural calendar, the days begins at sunset. From the evening of 11 May, the period of the Ice Saints unfolds until Saint Sophia, the “cold one“, on 15 May.
Only after this period does the nature fully shift into summer: meadows awaken, trails open up, and the rhythm of the mountains changes.
The Hotel Sassongher experience, Corvara.
In a privileged panoramic position in Corvara, at the foot of the Sassongher peak, Hotel Sassongher welcomes the beginning of the summer season with hospitality that combines Alpine tradition and contemporary comfort.
The Ladin-style interiors, attention to detail and discreet service create an authentic atmosphere, designed for those who wish to experience the Dolomites with balance and quality. The concierge service supports guests in discovering Alta Badia, suggesting tailored experiences and itineraries to make the most of a summer in the mountains.
Summer season opening 2026
Hotel Sassongher will reopen on 19 June 2026, welcoming guests for a new summer season in Alta Badia.
An ideal starting point to explore the Dolomites – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An invitation to rediscover the mountains through nature, tradition, and a form of hospitality that has always reflected their spirit.
We look forward to welcoming you to experience the magic of summer in the Dolomites, in Corvara in Alta Badia.
Hotel Sassongher
Corvara, Alta Badia
South Tyrol- Dolomites, Italy
ph: +39.0471.836085
For Bookings and Enquires
